Inspiring Global Citizenship

Civic Engagement = Inspired Kids

by kristinakingcohen on February 12, 2017

Inspiration tree at our local public school.

I’m not sure if any of us could have imagined the results of Nov. 8, 2016, but one thing is for sure, sometimes we need a shake up to wake up. It felt like an important reminder that we shall never lay idle or take for granted the freedoms and general prosperity that most Americans enjoy. So NOW is the perfect time for parents, educators, and communities to encourage our youngest citizens to get involved in issues that matter most to them.

Experts have found that civic involvement helps us build personal connections in addition to the typical ones we have through family, work, and leisure activities. When we participate in social action, community service, and political groups, we increase personal satisfaction because we engage with others on issues of mutual interest.

The connection between community involvement and happiness for children and teens has been evaluated. According to youth.gov:

Youth who volunteer are more likely to feel connected to their communities, do better in school, and are less likely to engage in risky behavior.

Youth are more likely to volunteer if their entire family is involved and this experience results in strengthened family bonds.

Students who performed voluntary community service were 19 percent more likely to graduate from college than those who did not.

Here are a few resources to encourage civic engagement in our youngest citizens: